1 My God, permit my tongue This joy, to call thee mine, And let my early cries prevail To taste thy love divine.
2 My thirsty fainting soul Thy mercy doth implore; Not travellers in desert lands Can pant for water more.
3 Within thy churches, Lord, I long to find my place, Thy power and glory to behold, And feel thy quickening grace.
4 For life without thy love No relish can afford; No joy can be compar'd to this, To serve and please the Lord.
5 To thee I'll lift my hands, And praise thee while I live; Not the rich dainties of a feast Such food or pleasure give.
6 In wakeful hours at night I call my God to mind; I think how wise thy counsels are, And all thy dealings kind.
7 Since thou hast been my help, To thee my spirit flies, And on thy watchful providence My cheerful hope relies.
8 The shadow of thy wings My soul in safety keeps; I follow where my Father leads, And he supports my steps.